COTU Threatens Indefinite Economic Blockade on NH-2 if Central Forces Not Withdrawn from Saibol Area

Chief Minister N Biren Singh said that the security forces have the right to station themselves in any part of the country.

The ongoing conflict in the Saibol area of Kangpokpi Hills in Manipur has intensified, with the Committee on Tribal Unity (COTU) demanding the immediate withdrawal of combined security forces from the region failing which COTU has threatened to launch an indefinite economic blockade on National Highway 2 (NH-2), a crucial lifeline for the state of Manipur.

The unrest stems from accusations that security forces, including the Border Security Force (BSF) and Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), manhandled women protestors, leading to injuries to at least 15 individuals.

The incident occurred during a protest where women from nearby villages gathered at Uyok Hills, demanding that the joint security forces vacate bunkers previously taken over from armed men.

The bunkers in question, located in the Saibol area, were reportedly used by armed groups to launch attacks on the villages of Sana Sabi, Thamnapokpi, and Yaingangpokpi.

The combined forces, led by the Indian Army, along with the CRPF and BSF, had taken control of these strategic positions to maintain security in the region.

However, locals from various villages attempted to block access to the bunkers.

In response to the rising tensions, Chief Minister N Biren Singh issued a statement supporting the presence of security forces in the area.

He emphasized that the security forces have the constitutional right to station themselves anywhere in the country to protect law and order.

“Manipur is a part of India, and the Indian security forces have the right to station themselves wherever necessary for security reasons. No one can prevent them from doing so,” said Chief Minister N Biren Singh.

Also Read: “I’m Sorry”: Manipur CM N Biren Singh Apologises for Over One-Year-Long Violence in State

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